THE CHALLENGES OF THE REGION ARE GREAT –
April 28, 2006
Edward Harris At Large:
THE CHALLENGES OF THE REGION ARE GREAT –
THE BASE FOR REAL DECISION MAKING SHOULD BE EXPANDED
In the past seven days, the people of the region have witnessed some very distressing incidents that will have serious implications in the future at the political, social and economic levels. The gruesome death of one of the most beloved ministers in the PPP-Civic Government was gunned down along with his brother, sister and security guard. The continuing spate of violence targeting civilians has now turned to persons with political affiliation. This is a dangerous development and has put Guyana in a position that a release of a negative travel advisory could come at any time.
Then it was Trinidad’s turn when former Prime Minister Hon. Basdeo Panday was given a prison term as a result of his failure to declare certain assets. It is the first time a former Prime Minister is sentenced to a prison term. It was a landmark ruling for the Judiciary within the region and it sends a strong message that no one is above the law. However in such a situation, it is very clear that there was a lack of discipline.
The foregoing developments put a cloud over the countries that were affected by the two incidents and will affect their standing in the international community. Crime in all its forms and by all strata of society must be dealt with. No one should be above the law.
In St. Lucia, we are seeing more daring crimes being committed, especially armed robberies. Businesspersons can no longer ignore the reality that everyone is vulnerable and precautions have to be taken. Surveillance equipment has become necessary in all business places.
It is all about unachievable expectations of our youth. They see all the niceties of life around them and when they look at their positions, they feel hopeless. Many of us who were conscious about the fact that with each passing year hundreds of students leave school and enter the job market, are not surprised by what is happening as a result lack of employment opportunities. It must be noted that while there is lack of employment opportunities, there are some who are bent on lawlessness and refuse to seek gainful employment. Crime has to be fought at all levels and business leaders have to get directly involved in helping to find practical solutions. Creative ways have to be found to put idle hands to work. Growth in the small business sector is critical.
Technology made it possible for me to be reading the budget speech and listening to the debate on line, all at the same time on my computer. The webmaster at www.stlucia.gov.lc should be congratulated for a job well done. It is heartening to note that the Private Sector Council members met during the week and are seeking a greater stake in the affairs of the country. This is very necessary as the Budget leaves the door open for a number of new legislation to be passed in the months ahead. Chief among them is the Labour Code.
It is no secret anymore that elections will be called before the end of 2006. I believe that this is good for the economy. While we are fortunate to have two major political parties that subscribe to democratic principles, investors need to be comfortable in their business environment and given the level of investment in the economy at this time, the earlier the elections, the better.
I can never over emphasise the fact, that exciting times are ahead, politically, socially and economically. Jazz is days away, Carnival weeks away, Elections a few months away and Cricket World Cup just under a year from now. There is a lot of business to be done over the next twelve months and it is my sincere hope that our businesspersons will take advantage of this window of opportunity. Support from the financial institutions will be necessary. Assistance with working capital for reputable businesses would be needed. A certain degree of risk will be necessary as the new businesses with no prior means of assessing their viability emerge due to the heightened demand for services in the various business related areas.
Exciting times are ahead and the private sector seems ready to set up to the table. There is a lot of energy being displayed within the private sector council which is good for all concerned.
To the workers of St. Lucia, this is your moment to shine, enjoy Labour Day 2006 – Happy Holiday!!
Keep the Faith, God is in charge!
Edward Harris
Email: eaharrisdestiny@gmail.com